1836 Gobrecht Dollar Value Guide: What Is It Worth?
1836 Gobrecht Dollar values range from $9,000 for circulated originals to over $190,000 for gem proofs. Learn to identify varieties, originals vs restrikes, and die alignments.
The 1836 Gobrecht Dollar is worth $9,000 to $190,000 depending on variety, die alignment, and condition.
- Circulated originals (PR20-PR40):$9,000 – $18,000
- Choice originals (PR50-PR63):$20,000 – $72,000
- Gem originals (PR64-PR65):$84,000 – $185,000+
- Rare varieties (J-58, J-65):$90,000 – $190,000+
All 1836 Gobrecht Dollars are rare. Die alignment and original versus restrike status dramatically affect value. Professional authentication is essential.
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The 1836 Gobrecht Dollar: America's Numismatic Renaissance
The 1836 Gobrecht Dollar: America's first silver dollar in over 30 years
The 1836 Gobrecht Dollar marks the dramatic return of the United States silver dollar after a 33-year production hiatus. These coins represent not just a monetary innovation, but a deliberate push toward artistic excellence at the U.S. Mint under director Robert M. Patterson. Christian Gobrecht's masterful designs—featuring Seated Liberty and a naturalistic Flying Eagle—established templates that would define American coinage for decades.
All 1836 Gobrecht Dollars are rare and valuable, ranging from $9,000 for heavily circulated examples to over $190,000 for gem specimens. The series is notably complex, with multiple varieties (designated by Judd numbers), different die alignments, and the critical distinction between original 1836-37 strikings and later restrikes produced for collectors in the 1850s-1870s. Understanding these nuances is essential for accurate attribution and valuation.
This guide covers identification of all major varieties, die alignment diagnostics, comprehensive pricing across the grading spectrum, authentication techniques, and the historical context that makes these coins among the most fascinating in American numismatics.
How to Identify Your 1836 Gobrecht Dollar
Name placement distinguishes Judd-58 from Judd-60 varieties
Identifying a 1836 Gobrecht Dollar requires examining several key features beyond the date. All examples were struck at the Philadelphia Mint and do not carry a mint mark. The two primary design elements are:
Obverse: Seated Liberty faces left (viewer's right), holding a Liberty pole topped with a Phrygian cap in her left hand. Her right hand rests on a Union shield draped with a scroll inscribed LIBERTY. The date 1836 appears below the rock upon which Liberty sits. Most varieties have no stars in the obverse field, creating a stark, medallic appearance.
Reverse: A naturalistic American eagle flies through a field of 26 six-pointed stars (13 large, 13 small) representing the original states and those admitted since. The legends UNITED STATES OF AMERICA and ONE DOLLAR encircle the design. The eagle's flight angle—upward versus level—is a critical diagnostic feature.
The most important identification point is the placement of the engraver's name "C. GOBRECHT F." This distinguishes the major varieties:
- Judd-58 "Name Below Base": The engraver's name appears prominently in the field below Liberty's base
- Judd-60 "Name on Base": The name is incuse on the rock base itself (most common variety)
- Judd-61: Has a reeded edge instead of the standard plain edge (unique or nearly so)
- Judd-63, J-65: Mules featuring the starless reverse of 1838 (extremely rare)
Die alignment is critical for identifying originals versus restrikes
Die Alignment: The rotational relationship between obverse and reverse dies is crucial for determining original versus restrike status. There are two types of turn (coin turn vs. medal turn) and two eagle positions (upward vs. level), creating four primary alignments. For the most common Judd-60 variety, Alignment III (coin turn with eagle flying level) identifies restrikes, while Alignments I, II, and IV are original 1836-37 strikes.
1836 Gobrecht Dollar Values by Variety and Grade
The market for 1836 Gobrecht Dollars is highly segmented by variety and condition. All examples are graded with a "Proof" designation regardless of circulation wear, reflecting their special method of manufacture. Values can differ by orders of magnitude between varieties.
Judd-60: Silver, Name on Base (Original, Alignment I)
This is the most frequently encountered variety, struck in December 1836 and March 1837 with approximately 1,600 pieces minted. PCGS estimates about 500 examples survive across all grades, making this the "common" Gobrecht dollar—though still quite rare by normal standards.
Even heavily circulated examples command substantial premiums
| Grade | PCGS Price Guide | NGC Price Guide | Recent Auction |
|---|---|---|---|
| PR-20 | $13,000 | — | $9,600 (Heritage, Jan 2021) |
| PR-30 | $14,000 | — | $8,700 (Heritage, Jun 2018) |
| PR-40 | $17,500 | — | $18,000 (Stack's Bowers, Feb 2025) |
| PR-50 | $20,000 | $19,000 | $15,600 (Stack's Bowers, Apr 2025) |
| PR-58 | $26,000 | $24,500 | $22,800 (Heritage, Apr 2023) |
| PR-62 | $35,000 | $32,500 | $38,400 (Stack's Bowers, Sep 2025) |
| PR-63 | $65,000 | $40,000–$51,000 | $72,000 (Heritage, Jan 2025) |
| PR-64 | $115,000 | $65,000–$72,000 | $99,000 (Heritage, Aug 2021) |
| PR-65 | $185,000 | — | $144,400 (NGC-graded offered) |
Note: Significant variance exists between PCGS and NGC pricing in higher grades. NGC's guide appears dated (last updated 2017-2019), while PCGS values and recent auction results reflect stronger current market activity.
Judd-60: Alignments II and IV (Scarcer Originals)
These scarcer die alignments from the original 1836-37 production typically command premiums over Alignment I examples of equivalent grade. A PCGS PR-58 Alignment II example has a current bid of $9,000 at Stack's Bowers (November 2025). No comprehensive price guides exist for these varieties; values are established through auction appearances.
Judd-60: Alignment III (Restrike)
Restrikes produced decades after 1836 for collectors. Distinguished by coin turn die alignment with eagle flying level, plus characteristic reverse die crack. Fewer than 20 specimens known. A PCGS PR-50 sold for $14,100 at Legend Auctions (December 2017). Problem coins with cleaning or damage trade significantly lower, with a PCGS Genuine XF-Detail example offered at $10,000.
Judd-58: Silver, Name Below Base (Restrike)
Major rarity rated Low R-6, with 25-30 examples believed to exist. All known specimens are restrikes from the late 1850s-1860s, identified by the name placement and cracked reverse die.
| Source | Grade | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Heritage, Apr 2008 | NGC PR-64 | $92,000 |
| Pogue IV, May 2016 | PCGS PR-65+ | $129,250 |
| Stack's Bowers, Mar 2017 | PCGS PR-65 | $152,750 |
| PCGS Price Guide | PR-65 | $190,000 |
Judd-59: Copper, Name Below Base (Restrike)
Extreme rarity rated R-8, with only 2-3 examples confirmed. Struck in copper from the same dies as J-58 silver restrikes. An NGC AU-50 Brown specimen realized $184,000 at Heritage (August 2010). Any future auction appearance would constitute a major numismatic event.
Judd-65: Silver Mule, Starless Reverse (Restrike)
Another R-8 rarity with 2-3 silver examples known. This mule pairs the J-60 obverse with the starless 1838 reverse. All are restrikes from the 1870s.
| Source | Grade | Price |
|---|---|---|
| NGC Price Guide (Jul 2019) | PR-64 | $90,000 |
| Stack's Bowers, Mar 2017 | PCGS PR-64+ | $152,750 |
| Goldberg, May 2004 | PCGS PR-65 | $184,000 |
Judd-67: Gold Dollar Pattern
Experimental gold dollar pattern struck more than a decade before the denomination was officially authorized in 1849. Features unique Liberty Cap with rays obverse and wreath reverse. Both originals and restrikes exist.
| Grade | PCGS Price Guide | Recent Auction |
|---|---|---|
| PR-50 | $10,000 | $10,925 (DL, Apr 2008) |
| PR-62 | $14,500 | $11,500 (ST, Jan 2009) |
| PR-63 | $18,500 | $17,480 (Heritage, May 2012) |
| PR-64 | $22,500 | $28,200 (Heritage, Apr 2013) |
| PR-65 | $26,000 | $26,400 (Heritage, Apr 2019) |
Other Extreme Rarities
Judd-61 (Reeded Edge): Unique or nearly unique pattern with reeded edge instead of plain. If offered publicly, would likely command seven figures.
Judd-62 (Copper, Name on Base): R-8 rarity with 2-3 known, NGC census confirms two PR-65 examples. No reliable public pricing.
Judd-63 (Silver Mule, Starless Reverse Type 1): Three silver examples confirmed. Pairs J-58 obverse with 1838 starless reverse. No public pricing available.
Grading the 1836 Gobrecht Dollar
All 1836 Gobrecht Dollars are designated as "Proof" by major grading services, regardless of circulation wear. This reflects their special manufacturing process—struck with exceptional care on polished planchets, producing proof-like or specimen surfaces. It is therefore normal to encounter grades such as PR-20, PR-40, or PR-58; these are not impaired proofs but original coins that circulated as intended.
High points wear first on Liberty's knee, breast, and eagle's breast
PR-20 to PR-40 (Circulated): Heavy to moderate wear is evident across all high points. On the obverse, Liberty's hair details are significantly worn, her breast and knee show substantial flattening, and the shield may be partially obscured. The date remains legible but may be weak in spots. On the reverse, the eagle's breast and wing details are largely smoothed, with feather definition reduced to outlines. The stars show wear at their centers. Despite the wear, these coins retain their historical importance and command strong premiums.
PR-50 to PR-58 (About Uncirculated): Light to very light wear is visible on the highest points only. Liberty's hair shows full detail with slight friction on the highest curls. Her knee and breast retain most detail but may show minor softness. The shield's horizontal and vertical lines are clear. On the reverse, the eagle's breast feathers are well-defined with only the highest points showing slight wear. The proof-like fields remain largely reflective, though circulation has left minor handling marks.
PR-60 to PR-63 (Mint State/Choice Proof): No wear is evident on the design elements, though contact marks from storage and handling may be present. The proof-like surfaces show their characteristic reflectivity. Liberty's hair is fully detailed, her drapery folds sharp, and all shield elements crisp. The eagle displays complete feather definition throughout. At the PR-63 level, eye appeal becomes increasingly important—attractive toning, minimal marks, and strong strike quality all contribute to value.
PR-64 to PR-65 (Gem Proof): Exceptional quality with minimal imperfections. The proof-like surfaces are deeply reflective with only minor contact marks under magnification. All design elements are sharply struck. Toning, if present, is attractive and original. At PR-65, the coin approaches perfection with virtually no distracting marks and exceptional eye appeal. These represent the finest available examples and command substantial premiums.
💡 Strike Quality Matters
Even within the same numerical grade, strike quality varies. Look for strong definition in Liberty's hair curls, clear fold lines in her drapery, and complete feather detail on the eagle. Weakly struck examples trade at discounts regardless of preservation level.
Eye Appeal and Originality: For a series celebrated for its artistic merit, eye appeal is paramount. Beautifully toned examples with original surfaces command significant premiums over bland or artificially retoned coins. The proof-like fields should show natural luster, not the dull, lifeless appearance of cleaned pieces. Original "skin" with natural patina is highly desirable.
Authentication and Counterfeit Detection
The high values commanded by 1836 Gobrecht Dollars have made them targets for counterfeiters. Authentication by PCGS or NGC is essential before purchasing any example. While third-party certification provides the highest confidence, collectors should understand common counterfeit characteristics.
Genuine examples show crisp details in Liberty's hair and eagle's feathers
Weight and Composition Testing: Genuine 1836 Gobrecht Dollars weigh 26.73 to 26.96 grams depending on the specific striking period. Low-quality counterfeits are often significantly underweight—one analyzed example weighed only 23.5 grams due to base metal composition. Metallurgical analysis of counterfeits has revealed alloys of copper, zinc, and nickel with only trace silver, designed to mimic the color of genuine coins. Non-destructive XRF testing can confirm proper silver content without damaging the coin.
Design Detail Quality: Examine Liberty's hair, particularly the individual curl definition. Genuine coins show crisp, flowing hair strands even on circulated examples. Counterfeits often exhibit mushy, indistinct details with curls running together. The eagle's breast and wing feathers should display sharp, clearly separated lines. Look for proper definition in Liberty's drapery folds and the shield's horizontal and vertical lines. The legends should be sharp with consistent spacing and height.
Surface Characteristics: Genuine Gobrecht Dollars have smooth, lustrous surfaces appropriate to their proof-like manufacture. Counterfeits frequently display rough, pimpled, or porous surfaces that are inconsistent with proper striking. Check the fields between design elements for texture anomalies. Denticles around the rim should be uniform in size and spacing; oversized or misshapen denticles are common counterfeit indicators.
"Clone" Counterfeits: A particularly dangerous family of fakes exists that was produced from dies transferred from a genuine but damaged host coin. These counterfeits perfectly replicate all design details of the original, including specific marks and repairs (such as a plug) that were present on the source coin. Multiple examples from this counterfeiting operation share identical scratches and surface marks that serve as attribution points. This type of forgery demonstrates why even experienced collectors should rely on third-party authentication.
⚠️ Certification is Essential
Given values starting at $9,000 for even heavily circulated examples, never purchase an uncertified 1836 Gobrecht Dollar. Both PCGS and NGC have extensive databases of genuine examples and can detect even sophisticated counterfeits. The certification fee is trivial compared to the financial risk.
Problem Coins: Be wary of examples with cleaning, plugged holes, or heavy damage. Many original Gobrecht Dollars served as pocket pieces or were made into jewelry, resulting in holes, rim damage, or graffiti. A coin graded "Uncirculated Details, Graffiti" by PCGS sold for just $16,800—a fraction of what a problem-free piece commands. Harsh cleaning leaves microscopic hairlines across proof-like surfaces and strips away original patina, resulting in "Details" grades that significantly reduce value. Problem coins should be avoided unless the specific variety is of extreme rarity.
Preserving Your 1836 Gobrecht Dollar
Given the rarity, historical significance, and proof-like surfaces of 1836 Gobrecht Dollars, proper preservation is critical. These coins are exceptionally susceptible to damage from improper handling or storage.
Store coins in inert, archival-quality holders from PCGS, NGC, or similar reputable services. Certified slabs provide the best long-term protection, sealing the coin in an inert atmosphere while allowing safe viewing. If storing raw examples (not recommended), use acid-free, PVC-free flips or capsules. Never use holders containing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which can cause irreversible green residue and surface damage over time.
Maintain a stable storage environment with low humidity (ideally 30-40%) and minimal temperature fluctuations. Avoid areas prone to moisture like basements. A fireproof safe with silica gel packets helps control humidity while providing security. Keep coins away from direct sunlight, which can cause uneven toning or fading of original color.
Handle coins as little as possible. When necessary, hold only by the edges while wearing soft cotton gloves. The proof-like surfaces show every fingerprint, which can permanently etch into the metal over time. Never touch the obverse or reverse surfaces. Even clean hands transfer oils that cause spotting and discoloration.
⚠️ Never Clean Your Coin
Any attempt to clean a Gobrecht Dollar will destroy much of its value. Cleaning leaves hairlines across the delicate proof surfaces and removes original "skin." Even gentle wiping causes damage visible under magnification. Natural toning, even if dark, is always preferable to the dull, lifeless appearance of cleaned coins.
Die Alignments and Varieties
The most critical aspect of attributing 1836 Gobrecht Dollars is understanding die alignments—the rotational relationship between the obverse and reverse dies. This characteristic distinguishes original strikes from later restrikes and affects value dramatically.
Eagle's flight angle helps distinguish originals from restrikes
Understanding Die Alignments
Die alignment combines two factors: the type of turn and the eagle's flight orientation. Coin turn (also called "horizontal axis alignment") means the reverse appears upside down when the coin is rotated top-to-bottom while held upright—standard for U.S. coinage. Medal turn (vertical axis alignment) means the reverse appears upright when rotated left-to-right—common for medals and some foreign coins.
The eagle's flight can be upward (flying at an ascending angle) or level (flying horizontally parallel to the legends). These combine to create four primary alignments used to classify the Judd-60 "Name on Base" variety.
Alignment I: Coin Turn, Eagle Upward (Original)
This is the most frequently encountered alignment among original strikes. When rotating the coin horizontally (top-to-bottom), the reverse appears upside down, and the eagle flies at an upward angle. This represents the bulk of surviving examples from the December 1836 and March 1837 production runs. Diagnostic: No die crack on reverse. Values range from $13,000 to $185,000 depending on grade.
Alignment II: Medal Turn, Eagle Upward (Original)
Scarcer than Alignment I. When rotating the coin vertically (left-to-right), the reverse also appears upright, and the eagle flies upward. This alignment resulted from mechanical difficulties during the striking process rather than intentional variety creation. Modern scholarship confirms these as original 1836-37 strikes. A PCGS PR-58 example has a current bid of $9,000, though choice examples command premiums over equivalent Alignment I pieces.
Reverse die crack is definitive evidence of restrike status
Alignment III: Coin Turn, Eagle Level (Restrike)
This is the definitive restrike alignment for the Judd-60 variety. The coin shows coin turn (reverse upside down when rotated horizontally), but the eagle flies level rather than upward. Most importantly, nearly all examples exhibit a characteristic die crack running through the tops of letters in UNITED STATES and the bottom of DOLLAR. These were struck decades after 1836 for collectors, likely in the 1860s-1870s. Fewer than 20 examples are known. Value: approximately $10,000 to $14,100 for problem-free examples.
Alignment IV: Medal Turn, Eagle Upward (Original)
Another scarce original alignment showing medal turn with the eagle flying upward. Like Alignment II, this resulted from feeding mechanism issues during the original production rather than deliberate variety creation. The erratic sequence of alignments (I-IV-II-IV-I-IV) observed in original strikes reflects technological experimentation with new steam-powered presses. Examples command premiums similar to Alignment II pieces of equivalent grade.
ℹ️ Attribution is Critical
Die alignment determines whether your coin is an original 1836-37 strike (potentially worth $13,000-$185,000+) or a later restrike (typically $10,000-$14,100). The presence or absence of the reverse die crack provides additional confirmation. Professional attribution is strongly recommended before purchase.
Recent Auction Results and Market Trends
The 1836 Gobrecht Dollar market has shown consistent strength, with high-grade examples commanding six-figure prices and even circulated pieces maintaining values well above their already substantial guide levels. Here are representative recent sales across the condition spectrum:
Judd-60 Original, Alignment I: The most actively traded variety has seen strong results. A PCGS PR-63 realized $72,000at Heritage (January 2025), exceeding PCGS guide of $65,000. At the gem level, an NGC PR-65 was offered at $144,400, while PCGS values the grade at $185,000. In the circulated range, a PCGS PR-40 brought $18,000at Stack's Bowers (February 2025), above the $17,500 guide.
Scarcer Alignments: A PCGS PR-58 Alignment II example currently carries a $9,000 bid at Stack's Bowers (November 2025). These scarcer die alignments typically realize 10-25% premiums over equivalent Alignment I pieces when marketed properly to specialists.
Restrike Varieties: The market for J-60 Alignment III restrikes is thin due to extreme rarity (fewer than 20 known). A PCGS PR-50 brought $14,100 at Legend Auctions (December 2017). Problem examples trade significantly lower—a PCGS Genuine XF-Detail (Cleaned) was offered at $10,000.
Major Rarities: The J-58 "Name Below Base" restrike has seen strong prices. A PCGS PR-65 realized $152,750at Stack's Bowers (March 2017), while an earlier Pogue Collection example (PCGS PR-65+) brought $129,250in May 2016. The even rarer J-59 copper restrike last appeared at auction in 2010, when an NGC AU-50 Brown realized $184,000 at Heritage.
Gold Pattern J-67: Recent results show steady demand. A PCGS PR-65 brought $26,400at Heritage (April 2019), with another example realizing $21,600at Heritage (January 2025). Even mid-grade examples perform well—a PCGS PR-64 realized $28,200 at Heritage (April 2013).
Market observers note that published price guides, particularly NGC's (last updated 2017-2019), lag current market reality. PCGS guides and actual auction results more accurately reflect collector demand, particularly for high-grade originals and major rarities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is my 1836 Gobrecht Dollar worth?
Values range from $9,000 for heavily circulated original strikes to over $190,000 for gem-quality examples. The specific variety (Judd number), die alignment, grade, and problem-free status all dramatically affect value. The most common variety, Judd-60 Original Alignment I, spans $13,000 (PR-20) to $185,000 (PR-65). Scarcer varieties and alignments command substantial premiums. Professional authentication and accurate attribution are essential before any transaction.
What are the different 1836 Gobrecht Dollar varieties?
The major varieties are designated by Judd numbers: J-58 (Name Below Base, restrike), J-59 (copper Name Below Base), J-60 (Name on Base, multiple alignments), J-61 (reeded edge pattern), J-62 (copper Name on Base), J-63 and J-65 (silver mules with starless reverse), and J-67 (gold dollar pattern). The most collectible is J-60, which exists in four die alignments (I, II, III, IV), with Alignment III being a restrike and the others original 1836-37 strikes. The placement of engraver's name and edge type distinguish the primary varieties.
How do I identify if my coin is an original or restrike?
For the common J-60 variety, die alignment is critical. Alignment III (coin turn with eagle flying level) indicates a restrike, identifiable by the reverse die crack through UNITED STATES. Alignments I, II, and IV are original 1836-37 strikes with the eagle flying upward. Restrikes also typically show deeper, more brilliant mirrored surfaces consistent with 1860s-1870s proof technology, while originals have shallower proof-like fields. The presence of the characteristic reverse die crack is considered definitive proof of restrike status. Given the value difference, professional attribution is strongly recommended.
Why are these called "Proof" even when heavily worn?
All 1836 Gobrecht Dollars were struck using proof manufacturing techniques—polished planchets and dies, multiple strikes under high pressure—even though many were released into circulation. This special method of manufacture results in proof-like surfaces with reflective fields. Both PCGS and NGC designate all examples as "Proof" regardless of circulation wear. Therefore, grades like PR-20 or PR-40 are normal and simply indicate original coins that circulated as intended, not impaired or damaged proofs. This unique grading convention reflects the historical reality of how these coins were produced.
Do 1836 Gobrecht Dollars have mint marks?
No. All 1836 Gobrecht Dollars, regardless of variety or Judd number, were struck at the Philadelphia Mint. Following standard practice for this facility during the 19th century, they do not carry a mint mark. The absence of a mint mark is therefore correct and expected for all genuine examples.
Should I get my 1836 Gobrecht Dollar professionally graded?
Absolutely essential. Given values starting at $9,000 for even heavily circulated examples, professional authentication by PCGS or NGC is critical. These services have extensive databases of genuine examples and can detect sophisticated counterfeits. They will also accurately attribute die alignment and variety, which dramatically affects value. The certification fee is trivial compared to the financial risk of purchasing an uncertified example. Additionally, certified coins are more liquid and easier to sell when the time comes.
What is the melt value of an 1836 Gobrecht Dollar?
The silver content value is approximately $37-38 based on 26.73-26.96 grams at 89.24% or 90% purity. This is completely negligible compared to numismatic value. The true value of any 1836 Gobrecht Dollar derives entirely from historical significance, rarity, and collector demand. Even the most heavily worn or damaged examples command thousands of dollars above their intrinsic metal content. Never consider melting an 1836 Gobrecht Dollar—the numismatic premium exceeds melt value by several orders of magnitude.
Can I clean my 1836 Gobrecht Dollar to improve its appearance?
Never attempt to clean your coin. Any cleaning will destroy much of its value by leaving hairlines across the delicate proof-like surfaces and removing original "skin." Even gentle wiping causes visible damage under magnification. The dull, lifeless appearance of cleaned coins is immediately apparent to collectors and grading services, resulting in "Details" grades that dramatically reduce value. Natural toning, even if dark, is always preferable to the artificial appearance of cleaned pieces. If your coin appears to need cleaning, it likely has environmental damage that should be assessed by professionals, not addressed at home.
Where can I learn more about Gobrecht Dollars?
Excellent resources include the NGC Coin Explorer Gobrecht Dollar pages, PCGS CoinFacts, and CoinWeek's comprehensive Gobrecht Dollar overview. For authentication guidance, consult NGC's counterfeit detection article. Specialized references include the Judd pattern catalog and research by numismatic scholars on die alignments and striking sequences. Major auction catalogs from Stack's Bowers and Heritage also provide detailed lot descriptions and photography of significant examples.
What are the different compositions of 1836 Gobrecht Dollars?
The composition varied based on striking period and Coinage Act standards. The initial 1,000 pieces struck in December 1836 were made under the Act of 1792 standard: 89.24% silver and 10.76% copper, weighing 26.96 grams. The 600 pieces struck in March 1837 (still dated 1836) were the first made under the new Act of 1837 standard: 90% silver and 10% copper, weighing 26.73 grams. All later restrikes also follow the 90% silver standard. Additionally, rare pattern varieties exist in copper (J-59, J-62) and gold (J-67). The composition difference between December 1836 and March 1837 strikes can sometimes be determined through precise weight measurement.
Research Methodology and Sources
This guide synthesizes information from leading numismatic organizations, auction archives, and scholarly research to provide accurate, current valuations and attribution guidance for 1836 Gobrecht Dollars.
Pricing data derives from multiple authoritative sources: PCGS CoinFacts (October 2025 Price Guide), NGC Coin Explorer (July 2019 Price Guide), and recent auction results from Heritage Auctions, Stack's Bowers Galleries, and other major numismatic firms. Where price guides diverge, preference is given to PCGS values and recent auction realizations as more reflective of current market conditions.
Technical specifications, historical context, and attribution diagnostics are drawn from NGC's comprehensive Gobrecht Dollar overview, CoinWeek's detailed series analysis, Stack's Bowers research on die alignments, and scholarly articles in Numismatic News. Counterfeit detection information comes from NGC's authentication research.
Market values for rare coins fluctuate based on collector demand, availability, and overall economic conditions. Prices listed represent reasonable ranges based on recent market activity but should not be considered firm offers to buy or sell. Actual transaction prices may vary. For current values of specific coins, consult recent auction records or obtain appraisals from professional numismatists. This guide is intended for educational purposes and should not be the sole basis for buying or selling decisions.
